Department of Educational Administration
Date of this Version
10-2006
Document Type
Article
Citation
Journal of Women in Educational Leadership, Vol. 4, No. 4--October 2006 ISSN: 1541-6224
Abstract
Prior to beginning my current position, I'm glad no one told me that many women find the academy unappealing, with a chilly environment that can be biased and hostile toward women. I'm glad no one told me that I may suffer from intellectual and social isolation that is brought about by the masculine principles of competition and individualism that often occur in institutions of higher education. I'm glad no one told me that I will have little guidance from my peers due to a lack of mentors and that I may be expected to compromise my personal values and beliefs to fit into the white male dominated academic culture. I'm glad no one told me that, as a woman, I will be less likely to pursue a tenure-track position and if I do, I will be more likely to leave before advancing through the review process. I'm glad no one told me that I would probably report lower satisfaction than white males on relationships with colleagues, professional development, and overall career experience. I'm glad no one told me about the barriers that I may face as a woman faculty member because I may not be in the position that I am in today. I love what I do and I believe I do it for the right reasons and NOW that I am here, I have the opportunity and the responsibility to DO something about these issues with women in higher education specifically related to the promotion and tenure process.
Comments
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